Derationalize

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. To cause the loss or removal of rational thought or reasoning in someone or something ; to revert a previously rational process or belief to a less logical or senseless state ; to transform a concept, argument, or behavior by undermining its foundation in reason
2. To impair or eliminate the capacity for logical thinking or sensible judgment ; to convert a coherent system or idea into one characterized by illogical or irrational qualities ; to reduce the rationality of a mental state, method, or principle by introducing confusion or nonsense
3. To disrupt or undo the use of reason and clear thinking in a person or situation ; to shift a structured, reasoned approach into an irrational or illogical form ; to alter a rational framework so it no longer adheres to principles of logic or sound judgment

Etymology: The verb in question is a modern formation built from the root "rationalize," which itself emerged in English around the late 18th century. "Rationalize" originally meant to make something rational or to provide a logical explanation, often applied in contexts like reasoning, philosophy, or even industrial processes. The prefix "de-" typically signifies reversal or removal, so the verb formed by adding it implies undoing or removing rationalization. This construction follows a recognizable pattern in English where "de-" attaches to verbs to indicate negation or reversal, such as "deactivate" or "decaffeinate." Here, the term suggests the action of removing rational thought or explanation from something, or causing a process or behavior to become less rational. While its usage is rare and likely specialized, it fits smoothly into English’s flexible system of verb formation. The root "rationalize" comes from the Latin "rationalis," meaning "reasonable" or "possessing reason," which in turn derives from "ratio," meaning "reason" or "calculation." The suffix "-ize," common in English, forms verbs indicating causing or making into a certain state. Thus, "rationalize" literally means to make reasonable or to bring into conformity with reason. The newly coined verb, therefore, plays off this legacy by suggesting a movement away from reason, either by disassembling previously rationalized ideas or behaviors or by prompting irrationality. Its formation reflects ongoing linguistic creativity, especially in fields like psychology, sociology, or critical theory, where describing the undoing of rational frameworks can be conceptually important.